Dear Readers,

March is here, and with it comes a special focus: the incredible impact of teachers.

Socrates, the ancient Greek philosopher, was undoubtedly the original inspiring teacher. He was all about asking questions, a whole lot of them, to get his students to really think and dig deep into their own beliefs. His famous saying, "I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think," has deeply influenced my approach to my own language teaching. It steered me towards acting more as a guide, helping my students to think critically and explore the language independently. How? By creating a learning space that nurtures curiosity, prompts questions, and aids students in forming their own understanding and appreciation of the language’s nuances.

Reflecting on my school days, I remember teachers like Ms. Sandra, Mrs. Ester, and Mr. Solmi, who each, in their own unique way, profoundly impacted me. Ms. Sandra, with her mix of firmness and kindness, taught me the value of patience and resilience. Mrs. Ester, through her strict yet caring approach, opened my eyes to the world of literature and the power of words. And Mr. Solmi brought the wonders of biology to life, captivating us with his passion and clarity. These educators not only shared knowledge but also inspired curiosity, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the world around us, embodying the true spirit of teaching.

This March, with #InspiringTeachers2024, we're diving deep into the world of teachers who shape our futures, one student at a time.

What's in Store for #InspiringTeachers2024?

- Weekly Spotlight Stories: Every week, we'll share heartwarming and powerful stories of teachers from diverse backgrounds. These aren't just any stories; they're narratives of resilience, innovation, and, above all, inspiration.

- Chats with Educational Mavericks: Stay tuned for interviews and guest posts from the front-runners of education. These are the folks who are reimagining what learning can look like.

- Empowerment Corner: Drawing inspiration from the "Women Rising Strong 2024 Workbook," we'll share tips and exercises tailored for educators. It's all about personal growth and empowerment through the lens of teaching.

- Social Media Engagement: We'll be bringing these conversations to life on my social media platforms at @sasterling72. Plus, we'll be featuring inspiring quotes from legendary teachers to light up our journey. Stay tuned and join us on social media for more insights and inspiration!

Why Teachers Deserve the Spotlight

Teachers are more than just educators; they're architects of the future. They guide, mentor, and inspire. Celebrating inspiring teachers means acknowledging their crucial role in not just imparting knowledge but in molding character, fostering empathy, and igniting curiosity.

Get Involved

Have a teacher who changed your life? Share your story with us at https://www.sasterling.com/share/yourstory.  Let's flood March with tales of inspiration and gratitude for those who've taught us so much.

Reflecting on the teachers who've touched my life brings a flood of gratitude. They've taught me that learning isn't just about gathering information; it's about sparking change. Through my writing, I strive to pay forward the lessons of resilience, empowerment, and hope they've instilled in me.

With warmth and gratitude,

S.A. Sterling